China cuts imports of Russian coal for the third consecutive year
China, the largest buyer of Russian coal, continues to reduce its purchases. In January–February, supplies of all types of coal from Russia fell by 15% year-on-year to 10.8 million tonnes, according to Russian media reports.
In January, exports totalled 6.1 million tonnes (down 3% year-on-year), while in February they dropped by 26% to 4.7 million tonnes. In monetary terms, supplies decreased by 17% to $1.1 billion.
After the EU imposed an embargo on Russian coal over the war in Ukraine, Russia significantly increased exports to China. However, in 2024, shipments declined by 7% due to tariffs, lower prices and rising logistics costs.
The downward trend continued in 2025: imports fell by a further 7% to 88.8 million tonnes, while in value terms they dropped by 25% to $8.2 billion.
Earlier, Reuters reported that China had launched large-scale ocean research.
The US confrontation with Iran is also giving China time to carry out large-scale military modernisation.
China has also denied any link between the postponement of Donald Trump’s visit and the situation in the Strait of Hormuz.
Additionally, Beijing has once again called on Taiwan for “reunification,” promising energy stability.
